Dynamic responses of counterflow nonpremixed flames to AC electric field

Abstract

Although ionic wind has been observed to play important roles in the effects of electric fields on flames, there is a lack of systematic quantification of ionic wind that allows interpretation of a flame's responses to electric fields. Here, we report on various responses of nonpremixed flames, such as the flame's dynamic responses and the generation of bidirectional ionic wind, in relation to the applied voltage and frequency of an alternating current (AC) in a counterflow burner. We find that although the Lorentz force acting on charged molecules initiates related effects, each effect is both complex and different. When the applied voltage is in the sub-saturated regime (small) as determined by the voltage-current behavior, flame movements and flow motion are minimally affected. However, when the applied voltage is in the saturated regime (large), flame oscillation occurs and a bidirectional ionic wind is generated that creates double-stagnation planes. The flame's oscillatory motion could be categorized in the transport-limited regime and in the oscillatory decaying regime, suggesting a strong dependence of the motion on the configuration of the burner. We also observed bidirectional ionic wind in visibly stable flames at higher AC frequencies. We present detailed explanations for flame behaviors, electric currents, and flow characteristics under various experimental conditions.